A fireplace is an architectural structure made of brick, stone or metal designed to contain a fire. In the 2010s, fireplaces are used for the relaxing ambiance they create and for heating a room. Modern fireplaces have variable heat efficiency, depending on the sophistication of the design.Historically they were used for heating a dwelling, cooking, and heating water for laundry and domestic uses. A fire is contained in a firebox or firepit; a chimney or other flue allows exhaust to escape.